When you are selling your home, there is usually a short period between exchange of contracts and completion. During this time, buyers may ask for access to the property—for example to take measurements, arrange works or deliver items.
While these requests are often made in good faith, allowing access before completion can place sellers at risk. At QualitySolicitors Large & Gibson, our role is to help you move with confidence and protect your interests at every stage of your transaction. For this reason, we generally advise sellers to proceed with caution.
Who Is Responsible Before Completion?
Until completion takes place, you remain the legal owner of the property. This means you are still responsible for:
- The condition and safety of the property
- Any damage that occurs
- Maintaining appropriate insurance cover
Even after contracts have been exchanged, ownership does not transfer until completion. Allowing access before that point can create uncertainty if something goes wrong.
Risk of Damage to the Property
Granting early access may expose you to the risk of damage, whether accidental or otherwise. This can include:
- Damage to fixtures, fittings or decoration
- Works being carried out without your consent
- Contractors attending who may not be properly insured
If damage occurs, recovering the cost of repairs can be difficult, particularly if completion is delayed or the transaction encounters problems.
Insurance Considerations
Most buildings insurance policies assume that the insured party has sole possession and control of the property.
Allowing buyer access may:
- Breach the terms of your policy
- Reduce or invalidate insurance cover
- Complicate any claim for damage or injury
This could leave you financially exposed if an incident occurs before completion.
Liability for Injury
As the legal owner, you may be liable if a buyer, visitor or contractor is injured while on the property prior to completion.
This can result in:
- Personal injury claims
- Legal costs and compensation
- Unnecessary stress and delay
These risks exist even where access has been granted informally and with the best of intentions.
What If the Transaction Is Delayed or Fails to Complete?
Although exchange of contracts creates a binding agreement, delays and unforeseen issues can still arise.
If the buyer has already accessed the property, you may be left dealing with:
- Damage or unauthorised alterations
- Items left behind
- Disputes over responsibility
Resolving these matters can be time-consuming and costly.
Our Practical Advice
At QualitySolicitors Large & Gibson, we generally recommend that sellers do not allow buyer access between exchange and completion.
If access is genuinely necessary, it should:
- Be discussed with your solicitor in advance
- Be strictly limited in scope and duration
- Be recorded in a formal written agreement
- Take insurance implications into account
Even then, early access should only be granted in exceptional circumstances.
How We Can Help
Our experienced residential conveyancing team is here to guide you through every step of your sale, ensuring your position is protected and your transaction proceeds smoothly.
If you are asked to grant early access—or are unsure how to respond—please speak to us before agreeing. We will explain your options clearly and help you make an informed decision.